In Albany, New York State United Teachers (NYSUT) President Melinda Person has released the following statement in response to Governor Kathy Hochul’s 2025 State of the State address:

Governor Hochul’s address was a welcome declaration that she is focused on making New York more affordable for Working Families. NYSUT shares her vision to strengthen our schools and communities through transformative policies like distraction-free learning environments, new pathways connecting kids to high-demand careers and free school meals for every student in the state. We look forward to working with the Governor and State Legislature to ensure our schools are spaces where students and Educators can thrive. Together, we will fight for policies that make New York a better place to live, work and raise our children. As part of her address, the Governor made several proposals that align with NYSUT's Legislative goals for 2025. These include: Funding for universal school meals; A commitment to distraction-free learning environments; Expanding media literacy to combat misinformation; tuition-free pathways for students to enter high-demand occupations; Expanded mental health resources in schools; Funding our world-class facilities at SUNY (State University of New York) and CUNY (City University of New York); and Supporting our students through Early Childhood and Family Tax Credits.